Mimi Cohen Shader inspired many to live their lives to the fullest

Miriam "Mimi" Cohen Shader, 82, of Longwood, Florida, passed away peacefully on Jan. 28, 2017. A funeral service was held at the Congregation of Reformed Judaism Cemetery with Rabbi David Kay and Cantor Allan Robuck officiating.

Mimi was born in Richmond Hills, New York, to Menachem and Bertha Menschel on Dec. 3,1934. She grew up in Queens and attended Jamaica High School. After marrying Raymond "Ray" Cohen (z"l) in 1954, they moved to Lausanne, Switzerland, while he attended medical school. Mimi immersed herself in the culture and learned to speak French fluently.

After the birth of their first daughter, Mimi and Ray returned and settled in Miami where they raised three children.

Mimi was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She loved traveling and learning, and at the age of 46, Mimi returned to college, earning her bachelor's degree from Florida International University. She was energetic, loving, played competitive tennis for years and was a talented cook.

From the time she was young, Mimi had a special talent and passion for playing piano by ear. Over the years, she delighted her family, friends and community with her joyful piano concerts and impromptu sing-alongs. In recent years, Mimi was involved in concerts at Village on the Green and the Jewish Pavilion, sharing her musical talents at social events, Yiddish classes and senior residences in the community. She loved participating as the pianist for Yiddish classes held at Congregation Ohev Shalom.

Mimi cherished her Jewish heritage, inspired by her observant father. Before moving to Winter Park in 1991, she devoted many years to her synagogue, Temple Beth Am in Miami, as a music teacher, managing the Judaica Shop and chairing the Cultural Arts committee.

Mimi was fortunate to find love for a second time. She and Stanley Shader were married in 2007 and enjoyed life, travel, family and singing songs together every day at the piano.

One year ago, Mimi decided to begin bat mitzvah studies, a challenging and meaningful goal that she said "gave her purpose" while she faced health issues. She worked diligently toward her goal.

Mimi was the loving wife of Stanley Shader, the beloved mother of Loren (Robert) London, Robin (Alan) Cohen, Shea Cohen, and Barry Cohen (z"l) and the proud grandmother of Andra London, Brent London, Ross (Jessica) Cohen, Jordan Cohen, Matthew Cohen, Danna Cohen, and Natalya Cohen.

Mimi was predeceased by her first husband, Raymond Cohen (z"l); her son, Barry Cohen (z"l); and by her three sisters, Rhoda Clareman (z"l), Adele Miller (z"l) and Naomi Adelglass (z"l).

Memorial contributions may be donated to RAISE (Recognizing Abilities and Inclusion of Special Employees), by contacting the Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando: 407-645-5933, ext. 236. The RAISE program was inspired by Miriam's son, Barry, and created to help provide work and social skill training for individuals with special needs. The family of Miriam wishes to thank all those who have lovingly reached out in support.

Mimi's beautiful and talented spirit will be greatly missed. May her memory inspire you to use your talents to uplift others, to believe in love, to challenge yourself to be a lifelong learner, to ask questions, to persevere through life's many challenges and embrace life.